Ich lasse dich nicht, du segnest mich denn, BWV 1164 (früher BWV Anh. 159)

Johann Sebastian Bach's motet Ich lasse dich nicht, du segnest mich denn, BWV 1164, is a profound sacred work for double choir (SATB.SATB). The German text expresses an unwavering devotion, a plea to hold onto God's blessing and a recognition of divine fatherhood amidst earthly frailty. The composer masterfully crafts a rich contrapuntal texture, with the two choirs engaging in intricate dialogue and powerful homophonic passages. The music vividly portrays the earnestness of the text, building to moments of intense spiritual conviction. This motet is a compelling exploration of faith and divine reassurance, demanding skilled singers to navigate its complex vocal lines and express its deep emotional and theological content.